Wahwahtay Benais

In the Anishinaabe language, the term “Wahwahtay Benais” describes a great thunderbeing that lives within the northern lights. To the Anishinaabeg, the thunderbird is a powerful being whom works with the balance of Mother Earth and the northern lights represents the physical dimension where our ancestors live. Wahwahtay Benais grew up on the Leech Lake reservation, raised by his mother and deeply influenced by the traditional teachings given to him by his grandparents and other spiritual leaders in the community. These teachings kept him close to the land, which in turn, amplified his self awareness as he grew into a man.
Early in his teenage years, Wahwahtay Benais organized youth around traditional practices, which made a positive impact on his community. An advocate for the Anishinaabemowin language revitalization movement, he has deeply rooted himself around the Anishinaabe original teachings. As he matured, he expanded his network and enhanced his talents of writing lyrics and eventually performing. He has organized music exhibitions and workshops focusing on youth empowerment and reconnection to traditional Anishinaabe teachings on his reservation, as well as performing on a national level. His work has taken him to many places including Orlando, Albuquerque, Michigan, Maine, Northern California, Washington state, and Kansas. He is determined to use his vision toward advancing the lives of Indigenous communities everywhere with the spirit of his ancestors in mind. He currently works with the “Tobacco Prevention” program located in Cass Lake, MN which aims to preserve Native culture and educate youth about the effects of commercial tobacco. Wahwahtay Benais continues to utilize his artistic expression to promote the advancement of tribal people everywhere.
For booking and other information please call Wahwahtay Benais at (651)855-8057 or contact me by email at wahwahtaybenais@gmail.com